College

           Under Risinger v. Risinger, 253 S.E.2d 652 (1979), a parent may be made to pay all or a share of a child’s four (4) year college expenses. This can be done where: 1) the child can benefit from college; 2) the child demonstrates the ability to make satisfactory grades; 3) the child cannot otherwise go to school; 4) the parent has the financial ability to pay.

           The child has a duty to minimize college expenses by grants, loans or earned income. McDuffie v. McDuffie, 418 S.E.2d 331 (Ct. App.1992).

           Risinger held that, under certain circumstances, parents might be required to provide support for educational expenses of emancipated children. The availability of grants and loans, and the ability of the child to earn income, has been recognized as a factor to consider in making such an award.

           College expenses are tuition, fees, room, board, books and supplies. McDuffie v. McDuffie, 418 S.E.2d 331 (Ct. App.1992).

           A normal amount of time for a Bachelor's Degree, may exceed four (4) years. McDuffie v. McDuffie, 418 S.E.2d 331 (Ct. App.1992).

This information was prepared to give you some general information on the law. It is not intended as legal advice about any particular problem.